Amorim Faces a Difficult First Serie A Test: €50 Million Signing Struggles on Debut, Milan’s Expensive Squad Raises Concerns

The Serie A headline clash got underway as two-time winning Juventus hosted AC Milan, who had also collected six points from their opening matches. This high-profile matchup marked the first true major test for the Rossoneri under Amorim, examining the actual quality behind the team’s two consecutive victories in the first two rounds.

Milan continued to use their familiar high press, completing several interceptions near the edge of the penalty area, but repeatedly missed chances in the finishing phase. The midfield battle reached full intensity, while Modric’s inclusion in the starting lineup was widely debated. The opening exchanges were highly physical, and the veteran midfielder found it difficult to adapt to such intense demands. Had he entered as a substitute when both teams’ fitness levels declined in the second half, he might have been able to make a greater impact.

Wing-back Moreira, signed from Strasbourg for €50 million this summer, made his debut, and his overall performance was described as disastrous. The player showed only a speed advantage, while his flashy dribbling lacked practical effectiveness, drawing comparisons to Antony. His attempts to break through from the flank all failed, and his combinations with teammates in central and wide areas frequently broke down. He was unable to cut inside or get to the byline, with only one minor highlight coming from disrupting an opponent near the goal line. Compared with 19-year-old substitute Cisse, the difference in performance was clear, further increasing expectations for Hutchinson’s contribution.

Moreira possesses outstanding physical qualities, but lacks the football intelligence and refined technique required on the wing. Whether as an attacking outlet or a passing option under pressure, his performance was even below that of the team’s veteran players. Milan’s build-up from the back was no longer as smooth as it had been in the previous two rounds, and without several impressive forward-driving turns from Musah, the team would have faced even greater difficulties. After a poor debut from a major signing, concerns have emerged over the value of Milan’s expensive new squad. The long season has only just begun, and Amorim will need significant time to continue integrating the team. Whether this €50 million investment can deliver its expected value remains to be seen.